A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isla Mujeres vs. Glacier National Park for Resorts, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Isla Mujeres and Glacier National Park. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a laid back, idyllic, and relaxing island. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a breathtaking, gorgeous, and stunning park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Isla Mujeres and Glacier National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Going-to-the-Sun Road
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park?

Both Glacier National Park and Isla Mujeres have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Isla Mujeres is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Glacier National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Glacier National Park is more touristy than Isla Mujeres and is known for its miles of hiking trails, impressive glaciers, and pristine lakes. Isla Mujeres is famous for its award-winning beaches, underwater marine life, and tranquil atmosphere.

How is Isla Mujeres different from Glacier National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Glacier National Park and Isla Mujeres. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park?

Isla Mujeres
Glacier National Park

Neither Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park offer quality museums and landmarks.

Isla Mujeres offers a few options for museum-goers. Nobody really heads to this island for the museums.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Glacier National Park. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most people head straight for the park.


Is the Food Better in Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Isla Mujeres
Glacier National Park

Isla Mujeres is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Isla Mujeres makes for a great culinary experience. The island has many restaurants, particularly along Hidalgo Street in the Centro area. They typically have a laid back island vibe and serve local seafood or other popular cuisines.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Glacier National Park. You'll find several restaurants and cafes both within and near the park, but this is an incredibly crowded park so you'll want to make reservations well in advance.

Is Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park Better for Nightlife?

Isla Mujeres
Glacier National Park

Isla Mujeres is a popular place for nightlife. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Isla Mujeres. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but those who spend the night will enjoy hanging out at the beach bars along Playa Norte. Many have a laid back vibe and some have live music or DJs.

Glacier National Park doesn't offer many options. People visit for the scenery, not the nightlife scene.

Is Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park Better for Resorts?

Isla Mujeres
Glacier National Park

Isla Mujeres is very popular for its resorts. Also, Glacier National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Isla Mujeres is a great choice. Despite its small size, there are a range of impressive resorts on the island. Accommodation ranges from affordable hostels to stunning luxury resorts.

With a selection of resorts, Glacier National Park makes a nice vacation spot. There are several lodges, cabins, and inns near or within the park, but reservations are recommended well in advance.


Is Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Isla Mujeres
Glacier National Park

Isla Mujeres is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Glacier National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Isla Mujeres a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. There are many great snorkeling and diving areas just off the island. It's easy to arrange tours that will take you to the best spots. Popular areas include Manchones Reef, the Underwater Museum of Art, and Garrafon Natural Park.

Glacier National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park Better for Beaches?

Isla Mujeres
Glacier National Park

Isla Mujeres is very popular for its beaches. However, Glacier National Park is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Isla Mujeres. The island has spectacular beaches where the white sand meets the blue water. The idyllic setting is the perfect place to relax with a drink or soak up the island vibe. Playa Norte is an award winning beach that has calm water and stunning snorkeling. Playa Centro has many restaurants and bars, and you'll likely see people sunbathing topless. There's a beach club at Playa Albatros as well as hammocks, umbrellas, and recreational activities.

Glacier National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park Better for Hiking?

Isla Mujeres
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Isla Mujeres is not a hiking destination.

Glacier National Park is a popular spot for hiking. There are more than 700 miles of trails in the park. For the best experience, you should purchase a permit and explore the parks backcountry. Other popular trails include Highline Trail, Grinnell Glacier Trail, and Avalanche Lake Trail. It's best to start in the early morning as this is a popular park and the trails get busier as the day progresses.

Isla Mujeres is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park?

Isla Mujeres
Glacier National Park

Isla Mujeres is a popular place for shopping. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its shopping opportunities.

Isla Mujeres is a great destination for shopping. Head downtown for the best opportunities to pick up gifts or souvenirs. You'll find local jewelry, art, and handicrafts.

If you're looking to go shopping, Glacier National Park has some nice offerings. There are park stores where you can pick up books, souvenirs, and gifts.

Is Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park Better for Families?

Isla Mujeres
Glacier National Park

Isla Mujeres is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Glacier National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Isla Mujeres is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love the outdoor sports, which include kayaking, surfing, cave exploration, and snorkeling or diving. There are also opportunities to get up close with marine life or spend the day playing at a water park.

Glacier National Park is a family-friendly island. The landscapes are spectacular, but the crowds can be intense, which means it can be hard to find places to pull over and park during the peak seasons. Keep this in mind when you're traveling with kids because you may end up spending more time in the car than you'd expected.

Is Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park Better for Couples?

Isla Mujeres
Glacier National Park

Isla Mujeres is very popular for romance. Also, Glacier National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its romantic activities.

Isla Mujeres makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's a world class honeymoon destination and couples enjoy the white powdery sand beaches, turquoise blue waters, and laid back island vibe. There's diving and snorkeling as well as romantic hotels and wonderful local restaurants.

Glacier National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Drive along the scenic Going-to-the-Sun-Road and take in the truly breathtaking scenery. Many people consider this to be a top destination for a honeymoon and couples will appreciate the impressive hikes, dramatic waterfalls, and adventure-filled activities.


Is Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isla Mujeres
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Glacier National Park. The backcountry is truly pristine, and obtaining a Wilderness Permit and getting off-the-beaten-path will help you escape some of the crowds that the park is known for.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Isla Mujeres. There are a handful of hostels on the island that offer budget accommodation and a social atmosphere.

Is Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Isla Mujeres
Glacier National Park

Isla Mujeres is a popular place for its public transit. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for times when you don't have a car.

Isla Mujeres has a few public transit options. There are two bus routes around the island that are operated by Isleños Bus.

Public transit is mostly limited in Glacier National Park. There's a free shuttle along Going-to-the-Sun Road that's available on a first-come, first-served basis, but expect crowds. The road can get quite congested during peak times. There are also tours that take you along the road so you can enjoy the scenery without having to focus on driving.

Is Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park a more walkable city?

Isla Mujeres
Glacier National Park

Isla Mujeres is notable for its walkability. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its high level of walkability.

Isla Mujeres is very walkable. The most walkable part of the island is the North part, which is the town center.

Glacier National Park is not a very walkable island. You'll need a car to get almost anywhere in the park.


For even more information, also check out Is Isla Mujeres Worth Visiting? and Is Glacier National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Glacier National Park or Isla Mujeres?

How long in Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Isla Mujeres and Glacier National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Glacier National Park than in Isla Mujeres. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Isla Mujeres, and 2-3 days is enough time in Glacier National Park.

Families should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Glacier National Park. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Isla Mujeres, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Glacier National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Isla Mujeres that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Glacier National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Isla Mujeres.


  • How many days in Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Isla Mujeres 1-2 
    Glacier National Park 2-3

One day in Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park?

In Isla Mujeres, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Isla Mujeres, one day is sufficent for most.

In Glacier National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking park offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Isla Mujeres. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island. It offers something for everyone.

Glacier National Park is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park?

Isla Mujeres is a fun place to experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find around the stunning destination of Glacier National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


A week in Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the idyllic destination of Isla Mujeres. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Glacier National Park is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Glacier National Park or Isla Mujeres?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Isla Mujeres is $148, while the average daily cost in Glacier National Park is $127. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Isla Mujeres and Glacier National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Isla Mujeres $78
    Glacier National Park $56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Isla Mujeres $156
    Glacier National Park $112
Compare Hotels in Isla Mujeres and Glacier National Park

Looking for a hotel in Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Isla Mujeres


Hotels in Glacier National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Isla Mujeres Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Isla Mujeres $35
    Glacier National Park $69

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Isla Mujeres

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Isla Mujeres:

  • Private Transfer: Playa Mujeres to Cancun Airport CUN in SUV: $123

Is it cheaper to fly into Isla Mujeres or Glacier National Park?

Prices for flights to both Glacier National Park and Isla Mujeres change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Isla Mujeres $46
    Glacier National Park $28

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Glacier National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Glacier National Park.

  • Half Day Whitewater Rafting with Riverside Dinner: $113

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Isla Mujeres $21
    Glacier National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Isla Mujeres

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Isla Mujeres are as follows:

  • Excursion Crystal Boat Tour at the Caribbean: $35
  • Tour Isla Mujeres excursion in Collective Transparent Boat: $37
  • Crystal Boat Tour to Isla Mujeres and Reefs: $43
  • Snorkel Tour at Musa and Manchones Reef: $45
  • Clear Boat Tour "La Isla": $47
  • Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Adventure at the Underwater Museum: $47
  • Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Tour Adventure: $49
  • Snorkel Experience in Underwater Museum: $52
  • Cancun: Isla Mujeres 12 pm Catamaran Tour with Snorkeling: $59
  • UNDER WATER MUSEUM CANCUN SNORKEL ISLA MUJERES - Experience with Ticket: $65
  • Cancun Jungle Kingdom Adventure ATV, Zipline and Cenote : $70
  • Sunrise Snorkeling Experience in Cancun: $70

Tours and Activities in Glacier National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Glacier National Park are as follows:

  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $12
  • Glacier National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Self Guided Bike Tour in Glacier National Park : $65
  • Half-Day Glacier National Park Whitewater Rafting Adventure: $87
  • Full Day Glacier National Park Whitewater Rafting Adventure - With Lunch!: $152
  • Full Day Whitewater Adventure Trip with Included Lunch: $157
  • Half Day Bike and Hike Tour in around Whitefish: $175
  • Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $220
  • Combo Tour: Driving and Snowshoe Trek of Glacier National Park: $220

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Isla Mujeres $25
    Glacier National Park $8.41

Sample the Local Flavors in Isla Mujeres

Also in Isla Mujeres, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Isla Mujeres Golf Cart Bar Crawl : $175


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Isla Mujeres and Glacier National Park, we can see that Isla Mujeres is more expensive. And not only is Glacier National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Glacier National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Glacier National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Isla Mujeres would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Isla Mujeres than you might in Glacier National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Isla Mujeres Expensive? and Is Glacier National Park Expensive?.


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